If you’re shopping for a gaming monitor, you might wonder: “Does 120Hz mean 120FPS?” Many gamers assume that a 120Hz display automatically guarantees 120 frames per second, but the relationship between refresh rate (Hz) and frames per second (FPS) is more nuanced.
Understanding this difference is essential to optimize gameplay, reduce input lag, and get the smoothest possible experience. This guide explains what 120Hz really means, how it relates to FPS, and how to maximize your monitor’s performance.
What is Refresh Rate (Hz) and FPS?
Refresh Rate (Hz)
- Refers to the number of times the monitor updates its display per second
- Example: 120Hz monitor refreshes 120 times per second
Frames Per Second (FPS)
- The number of frames your GPU renders each second
- Example: 120 FPS means the GPU outputs 120 frames per second
Key distinction: FPS is GPU output, Hz is monitor capacity. One does not automatically equal the other.
Does 120Hz Mean 120FPS?
No, 120Hz does not guarantee 120 FPS.
A 120Hz monitor can display up to 120 frames per second, but the GPU must actually produce 120 FPS. If your GPU outputs:
- 60 FPS → 60 frames displayed, each repeated twice
- 100 FPS → 100 frames displayed, some frames repeated
- 120 FPS → full 120 frames displayed, perfectly smooth motion
So, a 120Hz monitor sets the display limit, not the GPU output.
Why FPS and Refresh Rate Differ
1. GPU Limitations
If your GPU cannot render 120 FPS consistently, the monitor will display fewer frames than its refresh rate. This can cause:
- Motion judder
- Input lag
- Micro-stutter
2. System Bottlenecks
A weak CPU or slow memory can prevent reaching 120 FPS even on a 120Hz monitor. Use tools like Bottleneck Calculator to check system balance.
3. Frame Timing Issues
Uneven frame delivery can make motion appear choppy even if FPS is near 120. Higher refresh rate monitors are more sensitive to frame pacing than lower Hz displays.
Benefits of Matching FPS to 120Hz
1. Smooth Motion
- 120 FPS on 120Hz → each frame displayed once → smoothest experience
2. Lower Input Lag
- Frame interval at 120 FPS = 8.33 ms
- Faster response than 60 FPS on 120Hz, where frames are repeated
3. Competitive Advantage
- Essential for fast-paced FPS games, esports titles, and precision aiming
4. Full Use of GPU
- Ensures your GPU is fully utilized, providing maximum visual performance
For guidance on matching FPS and monitor refresh rate, see How Many FPS Can a 144Hz Monitor Handle?.
What Happens If FPS Is Lower Than 120?
- Frame repetition occurs
- Motion appears less smooth
- Input lag increases slightly
- Visual tearing possible without V-Sync or adaptive sync
Solution
- Enable G-Sync or FreeSync to synchronize FPS with refresh rate
- Cap FPS to slightly below refresh rate to improve frame pacing
Can You Benefit from FPS Above 120 on a 120Hz Monitor?
- Extra FPS above 120 is not visible
- Still reduces input lag
- Improves responsiveness and frame pacing
For competitive gamers, running FPS above 120 on a 120Hz monitor can provide subtle advantages, even if extra frames aren’t displayed.
When Is a 120Hz Monitor Enough?
- Casual gamers playing AAA titles at 60–100 FPS
- Non-competitive gaming where visual smoothness is sufficient
- Older GPUs that cannot consistently hit 120 FPS at high settings
When to Upgrade
- Fast-paced shooters and esports titles
- GPUs consistently producing >120 FPS
- Desire for ultra-low input lag and maximum motion smoothness
FAQ: People Also Ask
Does 120Hz mean 120 FPS?
No. A 120Hz monitor can display up to 120 FPS, but your GPU must render 120 FPS to match.
Can 120 FPS feel different on 120Hz vs 60Hz monitors?
Yes. Higher refresh rates reduce input lag and improve smoothness, making motion appear more fluid.
Is FPS above 120 wasted on a 120Hz monitor?
Not entirely. Extra FPS reduces latency and improves responsiveness even if frames aren’t displayed.
Do I need a 120Hz monitor for 120 FPS?
Yes, to display all 120 frames. Using a 60Hz monitor would only show half of them.
Will a GPU bottleneck prevent reaching 120 FPS?
Yes. Check your system with the Bottleneck Calculator to ensure CPU and GPU can handle high FPS.
Conclusion
A 120Hz monitor does not automatically mean 120 FPS. It sets the display limit, but your GPU and system performance determine how many frames are actually rendered and displayed.For smooth, responsive gaming, aim for FPS that matches or exceeds monitor refresh rate. Enable adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync or FreeSync, optimize graphics settings, and monitor system performance using the Bottleneck Calculator to ensure your setup fully benefits from a 120Hz display.